The basics: There's something for everyone at this 16th annual fest: International music from more than 100 artists, a food court teeming with Caribbean and Latin American fare, vendors, and plenty of shady spots to sit beneath the park's towering trees. Two music stages feature African rhythms, calypso, gospel, Haitian, jazz, R&B, reggae and more.

- Lake View Music Fest. Rock out against the backdrop of Wrigley Field at this fifth annual bash Saturday and Sunday. Live music highlights: Mickey Hart Band and Kofi (Saturday) and Liquid Soul and David Barnes (Sunday).

- Taste of Chicago. The gorgefest continues through Sunday in Grant Park with dishes from 65 restaurants. If crowds don't freak you out, catch the massive fireworks display and Independence Eve concert on Thursday night.

- Chicago SummerDance Festival. This week's beats in Grant Park include Argentine tango with Jose Luis Barreto and Tanguisimo (Thursday); jitterbug with the Spirit of the U.S.O. Jazz Band (Friday); steppin' with The Etcetera Band (Saturday); and swing with the Chicago Grandstand Big Band (Sunday).

- Naperville Ribfest. How far are you willing to drive for great ribs? More than 15 vendors from across the country bring their barbecue to Knoch Park for this annual fest. Headliners include Ted Nugent (Thursday), REO Speedwagon (Friday), Joan Jett (Saturday) and Trace Adkins (Sunday). Fireworks guarantee a bang-up time on Friday night.